Imagine a place where trams from the GDR era still rumble. That place is Woltersdorf. It’s a village with a rich history and surprising connections to the world of film.
Woltersdorf is located southeast of Berlin. The village borders the forest area of Rüdersdorf and Köpenick. This charming village offers relaxation near the capital.
The name Woltersdorf may come from the home village of its first German settlers. Over time, it gained unofficial names like Wendisch Woltersdorf and Woltersdorf bei Berlin. The name helped distinguish it from other places.
Let’s talk about the Woltersdorf’s claim to fame. In the 1920s, Woltersdorf became a hub for early cinema. Filmmaker Joe May chose the shores of Kalksee as the backdrop for his silent films. “The Indian Tomb” and “The Mistress of the World” were filmed here. These movies brought a touch of Hollywood to Woltersdorf. You can explore this history at the Aussichtsturm. It features an exhibition called “Als Woltersdorf noch Hollywood war.”
The Woltersdorfer Schleuse has been around since 1550. It has been rebuilt and renovated over the years. It is still a popular destination. The blue bridge over the locks has been around since 1929.
Another spot is the Liebesquelle. Legend says couples who drink from it are bound together forever. It adds a touch of romance to Woltersdorf. The Kranichsberg is over 100 meters high. The observation tower gives fantastic views.
The village has a unique feature. Woltersdorf has its own tram line. Since 1913, the tram connects the S-Bahn station Rahnsdorf with the Woltersdorf lock.
Woltersdorf is also known as the only former Berlin Kämmerer village. The city owned the village for 372 years. The villagers rejected being incorporated into Greater Berlin in 1926.
Today, Woltersdorf blends its history with modern life. The village has a rich culture. The Woltersdorfer Verschönerungsverein preserves the town’s beauty.
So, take a stroll through Woltersdorf. Think about the old trams and the silent film era. Experience the unique charm of this village.